Quantcast

Virgin Atlantic announces major upgrades including free Starlink Wi-Fi

Southwest's layoffs dent its worker-first culture
Abu Dhabi's long-haul carrier Etihad Airways sees record $476 million profit in 2024
Jet2 warns of profits squeeze from rising costs and late bookings
Southwest bends further to activist shareholder Elliott's demands
Hong Kong Airlines launches daily Sydney flights
Airline to launch new bunk beds in economy on long-haul flights next year
How Airline Employees Are Coping After Deadly Washington Crash
Major airline reverses in-flight menu change amid outcry
British Airways frequent flyer scheme changes: everything you need to know
Airline introduces world-first hand luggage ban on popular travel gadget
Air Canada Delays Boeing 767 Reentry
Flight Centre tips ‘price war’ as first direct Melbourne to LA Delta flights go on sale
FAA reverses course on meeting prohibition, blaming rogue employee
British Airways tweaks frequent flyer scheme after backlash
Delta flight from New York to Florida diverted to North Carolina due to ‘odor in the cabin’
EASA Certifies Safran’s First Electric Motor
US court blocks Biden administration's airline fee disclosure rule
JetBlue Issues Dim Outlook But Execs Remain Confident in Turnaround Plan
Delta to Resume Tel Aviv Flights April 1
Boeing CEO Ortberg outlines 2025 priorities after heavy losses
Storm Eowyn: Thousands of trains, flights and ferries cancelled as 100mph wind batters UK
Indian carrier long haul: IndiGo returns to profitability, plans long haul flights
These Frequent Fliers Are Done With Loyalty Programs
JetBlue accepting Venmo as payment method for flights purchased through mobile app
United Airlines stock rallies on results, as growing demand wasn’t just about premium seats
Delta Adds Another Alaska Route
Southwest to Reduce Pilot Head Count at Several Bases
Dublin Airport savings boost for holidaymakers – but passengers need to be quick
American Halts CRJ-200 Operations
Shanghai Airlines to Launch Casablanca Route
Virgin Atlantic announces major upgrades including free Starlink Wi-Fi
Research
Webp r9y2lq4mcr9lvdds2w5641ajppd8
Zach Griff Senior reporter | The Points Guy

Virgin Atlantic has announced significant upgrades to its passenger experience, including the introduction of free Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire fleet. The airline is partnering with Elon Musk's SpaceX to equip each aircraft with Starlink radomes, allowing passengers to stream content regardless of their cabin class. This service will require a Virgin Atlantic Flying Club loyalty account for access. Installations are set to begin in the third quarter of 2026 and are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The move makes Virgin Atlantic the first UK-based airline to offer this service, joining other international carriers like United Airlines and Qatar Airways in enhancing onboard connectivity. The decision to make Wi-Fi free may impact revenue streams, as Virgin previously charged up to $25 for full-flight passes.

Additionally, Virgin Atlantic is investing in more premium seating options on its Airbus A330-900neo fleet. The new layout will include six Retreat Suites, 42 Upper Class pods, 56 Premium recliners, and 128 economy seats. These changes aim to meet growing demand for premium products at London Heathrow Airport, where Virgin has its global hub.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Virgin also plans significant upgrades for its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet starting in 2028. These jets will receive enhanced seating across all cabins, featuring eight Retreat Suites and other premium options.

Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic intends to refurbish its flagship lounges in London and New York with multimillion-pound investments over the coming months.

Other enhancements include a new mobile app launching in December and collaboration with OpenAI and Tomoro.ai on an AI-powered concierge service called Virgin Atlantic Concierge. New loyalty tiers will be introduced for long-term travelers, although specific details have yet to be disclosed.

Virgin's updates reflect a broader strategy focusing on premium offerings while maintaining appeal through complimentary services like Starlink Wi-Fi.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, known as the world's first fifth-generation fighter jet, has never been sold to other countries.

Jul 15, 2025

The F-15 Eagle, a fighter jet in service for nearly 50 years, remains a significant asset to the United States and several allied nations.

Jul 15, 2025

Which country operates the most superior reconnaissance aircraft in the world?

Jul 15, 2025

A United States senator has raised concerns about the proposed partnership between United Airlines and JetBlue, known as "Blue Sky."

Jul 15, 2025

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, an iconic military aircraft, remains operational in limited numbers despite being over 60 years old.

Jul 15, 2025

Boeing's Dreamlifter aircraft has been making regular flights to Taranto-Grottaglie Airport in southern Italy, sparking curiosity among aviation enthusiasts and industry analysts.

Jul 15, 2025